"For years, owners of the BMW 3 Series E46 models have been reporting ruptures in subframe structure of their cars. This problem was also common in the earlier E36 models, but they re-occurred in the E46 models from 1999 to 2006. These problems appear in the rear mounting points for the subframe, which can rip out from their spots in sheet metal.

This happens because the rear differential transmits the torsional load from the engine through the subframe, then into the chassis. This constant loading and unloading weakens the sheet metal and causes it to fatigue and separate from the chassis.

Some mechanics were reporting that the only way to fix this is to remove the rear suspension, driveshaft and weld some new reinforcement mounts into the cracked areas where support is needed.

Yesterday, we received an official statement from BMW North America with details on a Class Action Settlement:

BMW has agreed to a proposed settlement of a class action lawsuit concerning the Sub-Frame structures on 3 Series (&#147;E46&#148;) models produced from 1999 through 2006. Under rare conditions the attachment points of the Sub-Frame may develop a fracture or crack. BMW has prepared an inspection, approved repair procedure, and reimbursement policy in keeping with the terms of the proposed class settlement. Details will be forthcoming, pending the court&#146;s final approval of the proposed class settlement. In advance of the final settlement, BMW customers with questions should visit www.E46subframeclassactionsettlement.com."

---- Someone else posted this in response:

Our X3 crreaks and cracks like it&#146;s coming apart when I asked my local dealer about the problem and the class action suit I was informed it was a bunch of bull. Can someone tell me what&#146;s going on ??

------------------ From wikipedia on subframes of cars:

"The principal purpose of using a subframe is to isolate vibration and harshness from the rest of the body. For example, in an automobile with its powertrain contained in a subframe, forces generated by the engine and transmission can be damped enough that they will not disturb passengers."

------------------ From wikipedia on the X3:

"The BMW X3 is a compact crossover SUV marketed by the German automaker BMW, based on the BMW 3-Series E46 automobile platform, and now in its first generation. BMW designed the X3 in conjunction with Magna Steyr of Graz, Austria &#151; who manufactures all X3's under contract to BMW.

Following the X5, the X3 was the second vehicle marketed by BMW as a Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV)."

So the E46 complete model run was from 1999 to 2006? The X3 is based on the E46 but it is still being built up through this year.

Do not know what the future X3, built in NC, will be based on.

Although it sounds like heck, this repair appears to be significantly less expensive, say around $1500, than the noreverse.org AT losing its ability to reverse when the drum itself (not the solenoids) is at fault. Some people are saying that this is a wear/maintenance issue but, if that is the case, why the successful suit.

Modifications to the suspension apparently make the E46 ineligible for reimbursement.